HoR members raise concerns over budget priorities, MP development fund

KATHMANDU: Parliamentarians have drawn the government's attention to contemporary issues and the budget priorities for the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26.

During today’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Dhruba Bahadur Pradhan objected to the language used by a lawmaker in reference to Jog Meher Shrestha during Sunday’s special hour session, stating that it was insulting to the Newar community.

Sher Bahadur Kunwar called for an end to delays in relief distribution for disaster victims, including those affected by earthquakes, while Ranju Kumari Jha demanded the implementation of a social security allowance based on contributions.

Rekha Yadav pointed out that although the current fiscal year’s policies and programmes include provisions for issuing identity cards to all farmers, only 1.9 million farmers have received them so far. She also criticised the 24.39% customs duty imposed on organic fertiliser imports.

Prabhu Sah urged the government to release the report of a probe committee led by the Deputy Governor, questioning why the problems faced by microfinance victims remain unresolved.

Prem Suwal called on the government to create employment opportunities within Nepal, highlighting the harsh working conditions faced by those employed overseas.

Amaresh Kumar Singh demanded an investigation into the robbery charges against a journalist who had photographed a crusher industry, insisting that action be taken against those responsible.

MPs also raised concerns about the MP Development Fund, urging the Ministry of Finance not to undermine parliamentarians through its allocation.

Speaking during the special hour session, Rajendra Kumar KC objected to reports of Rs 34 billion being allocated under the fund, suggesting that MPs should be involved in identifying development plans for their constituencies rather than having funds directly allocated to them.

"It was estimated that Rs 1.4 trillion in revenue would be generated in the current fiscal year, but only Rs 9.5 trillion has been collected so far," he said, advising the government against introducing a populist budget.

Surya Prasad Dhakal urged the government to introduce schemes that engage Nepalese youth in domestic production rather than sending them abroad for employment. He recommended a budget that promotes self-reliance in agriculture.

Ramkrishna Yadav stressed that the government must improve its performance to meet citizens’ expectations. He also called for strengthening the capacity and legitimacy of Parliament and MPs. Additionally, he urged the government to discourage middlemen in the agricultural sector, allocate funds for an alternative highway without removing it from the budget, and expedite infrastructure construction by allowing work at night.

By RSS